Raise the Hammer

Articles in Special Report: Light Rail

Anchor Institutions: 'Full Speed Ahead on Hamilton LRT'The letter calls on the City and Province to continue implementing the BLAST transit network, to complete the process to select a bidder that will build and operate the system, and to prioritize approval of the operating agreement. by Ryan McGrealPublished November 02, 2018 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

LRT: Let's Reduce TrafficLight Rail can carry up to four times as many commuters per lane as automobiles. by Ryan McGrealPublished September 18, 2018 in Special Report: Light Rail (13 comments)

LRT: Let's Reduce TraumaThe total cost of building the B-Line LRT is about equal to the financial cost of deaths, injuries and property damage caused by motor vehicle operators each and every year. by Kevin LovePublished September 14, 2018 in Special Report: Light Rail (1 comment)

LRT: Let's Reduce TaxesInstead of focusing on the critical issues facing Hamilton, this election is mired in a debate that has already been decided many times before. by Sean HurleyPublished September 13, 2018 in Special Report: Light Rail (0 comments)

Change is Scary but LRT Plan is SoundEvery city that builds LRT goes through the same angst. Soon we will look back and wonder how we could have ever been so scared. by Ryan McGrealPublished June 22, 2018 in Special Report: Light Rail (1 comment)

Hamilton Needs LRT to Grow Out of Our Infrastructure HoleWithout LRT, we are a city adrift with no Plan B to get our finances in order. Killing LRT now would send a devastating message to the world that Hamilton is a reckless and unreliable place to invest. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 19, 2018 in Special Report: Light Rail (6 comments)

Two Steps Forward, One Step Back on Hamilton LRTWith the Provincial election coming in June and the municipal election following in October, we all need to pitch in to make sure LRT stays on course. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 16, 2018 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

Another Four Months Down the DrainThe debate about whether the HSR should operate the LRT was an important one to have. The problem is that it should have happened two years ago. by Ryan McGrealPublished December 20, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (3 comments)

Compromise Motion to Ensure LRT Workers are ATU MembersUnder the proposal by Councillor Green and ATU President Eric Tuck, Metrolinx would continue the current procurement process but agree that LRT workers will be organized by ATU Local 107. by Ryan McGrealPublished December 15, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (8 comments)

HLR Urges Council to Continue with Current LRT Procurement ModelWhen Councillors meet on December 18 to formally receive the letter from Metrolinx, the best way forward is to allow the existing procurement process to move forward as quickly as possible so this project can get back on track. by RTH StaffPublished December 06, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (5 comments)

Waterloo LRT Vehicle at Bombardier PlantWhile the manufacturer of Hamilton's LRT LRV is not settled yet, this picture is just a quick visual of what a future Hamilton LRV will approximately look like. by Chris DrewPublished September 12, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

Ministry Approves Hamilton LRT Environmental ReportWith this approval as part of the Environmental Assessment process, the project can move forward to a request for proposals to build and operate the line. by Ryan McGrealPublished August 03, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (12 comments)

Anti-LRT Fearmongering Targets Overhead WiresRecently, an LRT opponent claimed that the overhead wires have been linked to cancer. That is simply not true. by Chris DrewPublished July 31, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

Ten Things Council Must Do Before Operating LRTCouncil needs to demonstrate meaningfully that it values transit before the HSR can be entrusted to manage rapid transit. by Dan JellyPublished July 05, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (15 comments)

Risky 11th-Hour Motion to have HSR Operate LRTThe best time to have had this discussion over who should operate the system was two years ago, when Council was signing the Memorandum of Agreement. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 05, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (8 comments)

Letter from Transport Minister Confirming LRT to EastgateMinister Steven Del Duca sent Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger a letter on April 26 confirming that the Province will extend LRT to Eastgate, contingent on Council support and available funding. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 28, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (3 comments)

Council Takes a Leap of Faith and Reaffirms Support for LRTAfter months of turmoil and dysfunction, Council made history last night by voting to move the city's Light Rail Transit forward with a Provincial commitment to extend the line to Eastgate. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 27, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (18 comments)

Letter: Great Leaders Make Decisions Based on Big PictureBeing able to look beyond the minutiae and see the bigger picture is what many of the world's best leaders are known for and has always being a primary catalyst for getting things done. by Tyler PearsonPublished April 26, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (14 comments)

What You Can Do Between Now and WednesdayOnce we get through this hurdle, we can renew our focus on ensuring that all Hamiltonians are able to understand the vision behind this project and the many benefits we will all be able to enjoy. by RTH StaffPublished April 25, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (1 comment)

A Selection of Citizen Statements Supporting Light Rail TransitCouncil's vote is not just for or against the LRT project. It is for or against thousands of citizens who have time and again expressed their unreserved support for this critical project. by RTH StaffPublished April 25, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (6 comments)

Letter: Dundas Needs Strong Leadership to Support Light RailAs a community, we need our Councillor to have the vision and strength to set the course for a healthy and prosperous future. LRT is an essential step toward this. by Debbie ChamberlainPublished April 24, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (4 comments)

Province Should Commit to Eastgate FundingOnce again, Hamilton needs the Provincial Government to step in and protect us from our own pettiness, short-sightedness and kneejerk fear of change. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 24, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (6 comments)

Letter: We Need LRT to Move Hamilton ForwardHaving come from Toronto, and lived through a few transit strikes, I can tell you it's the drivers who scream the loudest during a transit strike. by Margaret FerizisPublished April 24, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (1 comment)

Dreessen to Hamilton Council: Vote Yes on LRTOttawa architect Toon Dreessen has written a personal letter to Hamilton City Councillors calling on them to vote for 'long-term gain in a great future' for the city. by RTH StaffPublished April 24, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

It All Comes Down to This Coming WednesdayIf there was ever a time to speak up and make your voice heard loud and clear, it is between now and the Council meeting on April 26. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 21, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (10 comments)

LRT is the Right Choice for the Future of Our CityThe approach of providing transit based on ridership is no longer acceptable to today's employers. They are expecting that transit service will be provided from day 1. by Anne TennierPublished April 18, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (4 comments)

Letter From the Hamilton Academy of Medicine Supporting LRTWe wish to emphasize the benefits of rapid transit for public health and for positioning our city to continue to be a global leader in health care, research and education. by Jennifer BraschPublished April 18, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (4 comments)

LRT Opponents Explicitly Refuse to Acknowledge its BenefitsThe latest anti-LRT tactic has been to pretend that there are no benefits to LRT by insisting that we deny, ignore and exclude all of its many well-documented benefits. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished April 13, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Mayor Eisenberger Visits Waterloo LRT Open HouseThere was opposition to their project as well. But as the project progressed, they overcame it. Now it is close to completion. by RTH StaffPublished April 11, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (9 comments)

LRT: What's In It For Me?When someone asks, "What's in it for me?" remind them that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take a major chunk out of our infrastructure deficit and address our collective needs across the city. by Ron MariniPublished April 11, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (3 comments)

The Facts Support Hamilton's LRT PlanIt is disappointing that letters like this even have to be written after Council already voted 52 times for LRT and agreed to implement it with Metrolinx. by Johanna BleeckerPublished April 09, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (7 comments)

Light Rail Plan Has Already Had Extensive Citizen EngagementLRT opponents have had nine years to raise their concerns. Now Council's job is to provide leadership to ensure success, not hide behind last-minute obstruction agenda. by Peter HillPublished April 09, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (4 comments)

Anti-LRT Misinformation and Fearmongering is Getting RidiculousLRT opponents are relying on the classic Obstructionist Playbook of false claims, misinformation and fearmongering to try and sabotage this transformative, once-in-a-lifetime public investment in Hamilton's future. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 07, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (22 comments)

Latest BRT Pitch Just Another Obstruction TacticThe real goal of the transit concern trolls is not to make sure we have the 'right solution,' but rather to ensure that no solution is ever implemented and the status quo remains in place. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished April 07, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (7 comments)

An LRT Supporter With 'Skin in the Game'I know that progress comes at a cost, and I want my children to grow up, and hopefully stay, in a progressive city. by Anna DaveyPublished April 07, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (4 comments)

Hamilton City Council a Test of Faith in Good GovernanceJust as new investment and trust is manifesting in Hamilton, some Councillors want to pull the rug out from under its own LRT plan, thinking that there will be no consequences. by David BracePublished April 06, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (12 comments)

Rally to Encourage Council to Lead Positive ChangeChange is difficult and scary, even positive change, and our leaders need to have the courage to lead and to explain the goals and benefits. by Sean HurleyPublished April 06, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (3 comments)

Light Rail and GentrificationWorking-class people deserve a transit system that does not treat them like second-class citizens. And they also very much deserve not to be forced out of their neighbourhoods. by Eric GillisPublished April 05, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (3 comments)

LRT Divide is Based on Ideology, Not FactsGovernment spending is about demonstrating values. The discussion around the LRT project is no different. by Ian BorsukPublished April 05, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (10 comments)

LRT Director Debunks Operating Cost FearmongeringIf the LRT opponents in the community and around the council table are honest, they will stop trying to frighten and misinform Hamiltonians about the 'unknown' LRT operating cost. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 04, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (16 comments)

Enormous Cost to Reject LRTFear and divisiveness may lead us to refuse a billion-dollar investment in our city and delay our rapid transit plans for another generation. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished April 03, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (6 comments)

Time to Start Gearing Up for April 19The work of LRT supporters is not over. Between now and April 19, we need as many voices to speak up in favour of this transformative opportunity as possible. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 31, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

Maximum Benefits of LRT are Within Our PowerThe transformative power of LRT is about helping our city grow in a way that is more environmentally sustainable, socially equitable, healthy, and economically prosperous. by Chris HigginsPublished March 28, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Why Does Council Not Support LRT More Strongly?Community and business support for LRT is as close to unanimous as feasibly possible. How has this unprecedented level of support not translated into strong political support? by John-Paul DankoPublished March 25, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (5 comments)

Shocking Letter from Former Anti-LRT ActivistA letter from a former No Hamilton LRT activist apologizes for stirring 'fear and doubt' and 'scheming' to 'disrupt' LRT project and also notes collaboration with Councillor Donna Skelly. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 24, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (6 comments)

Letter: We Support LRT PosterEvery logo represents taxes, rents, employment, salaries and civic contribution by leaders and owners who felt it important enough to demonstrate their support for LRT. by Graham CrawfordPublished March 23, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (12 comments)

LRT Support Letter from Anchor InstitutionsThe letter expresses support for the benefits of transit investment and urges Council to continue implementing its rapid transit plan. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 22, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

Flamborough Chamber: Make LRT the Best it Can BeThe executive director of the Flamborough Chamber of Commerce argues that if Hamilton is going to go ahead with its LRT plan, Council should do what it can to ensure the plan is successful. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 22, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

Bay Street LRT Station: An Active Transportation HubMetrolinx would likely look favourably on a proposal to better integrate the LRT with cycling infrastructure that has been Metrolinx-funded. by Dave HeidebrechtPublished February 21, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (0 comments)

Letter: King and Bay LRT StopThis stop has the strong support of the local business community, would add less than one minute to the route travel time, and would attract new investment to the adjacent under-developed parking lots. by Bob BerberickPublished February 20, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (14 comments)

Letter: Help Make LRT the Best it Can BeThis development alone will generate hundreds of thousands of dollars in new property tax revenue for the City and bring economic vitality, jobs and new residents. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished February 16, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (7 comments)

Letter: Support the LRT Station at Bay StreetWe all support the aim of a system of rapid transit in the LRT plan, and there are compelling reasons to support the stop at Bay Street. by Rich GelderPublished February 16, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (9 comments)

Letter: Please Support LRT Bay Street StationEven - indeed, especially - if you are not sure that LRT will be successful, you should be doing everything in your power to set it up for the best possible outcome. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 16, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (4 comments)

Councillors Punish LRT with Vote Against Bay StationThe LRT opponents on Council can't kill LRT outright, but they are willing to do their damnedest to undermine, sabotage and cripple the system that does get built. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 16, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (16 comments)

Time to Stop Rewarding the Whitehead CircusThe angry, right-wing politics of hatred and resentment is a troll that gets bigger and stronger when we feed it. It's time to stop feeding the troll. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 10, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (21 comments)

Province Confirms A-Line Bus Rapid TransitThe Ontario Government has cancelled the two-kilometre Light Rail Transit (LRT) spur on James Street North in favour of a 16-kilometre Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system that will run between the waterfront and the airport. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 02, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (29 comments)

Civil Discourse and Calling a Neighbourhood 'Nowhere'When I told the LRT Sub-Committee that people living on the line don't like being told they are "nowhere", Councillor Whitehead took it personally and impugned my character. by Karl AndrusPublished January 31, 2017 in Special Report: Light Rail (5 comments)

Chamber Letter: Light Rail Station Needed at BayThe Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, in cooperation with several downtown Hamilton businesses and anchor institutions, has submitted a letter to the City of Hamilton's LRT Office to request an additional station at Bay Street. by RTH StaffPublished November 24, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (17 comments)

That Non-Story About Catenary Poles in LRT RenderingsFor a better sense of what we might expect along Hamilton's urban LRT corridor, here is a recent photograph of the Spadina LRT in Toronto. by Ryan McGrealPublished November 07, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (6 comments)

Hamilton is Already Committed to Completing Light RailThe anti-LRT councillors are on notice: if they attempt to kill this project in bad faith, Hamilton will be liable for the money Metrolinx has spent implementing it after Council committed to it. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished October 27, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (17 comments)

Hamilton is Somewhere, and its Citizens Are Worthy of Light RailLRT is a hopeful vision for the city we love. It looks forward and trusts in Hamilton's ability to survive the challenges of the construction period, and make the most of this transformational project. by Mary Louise PigottPublished October 27, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (10 comments)

Text of Legal Opinion on Light Rail Transit MotionsGeorge Rust-D'Eye concluded it would require a reconsideration motion and a two-thirds majority vote to reverse course on the LRT project or to put it to a ballot question. by RTH StaffPublished October 26, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (1 comment)

I Am a Lifelong Transit User, and I Support Light RailThe overwhelming majority of students who would ever consider staying here after their studies are the ones who have explored the city - and the way they do that right now is by riding on packed-like-sardines buses. by Eric GillisPublished October 26, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (0 comments)

A Hamilton Technology Company Co-Owner's Perspective on Light RailThe promise of Hamilton as a dense, progressive, fun, interesting city is an incredibly important part of helping us attract and retain a highly educated, highly mobile work force. by Adrian DuyzerPublished October 25, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (0 comments)

Letter: Hamilton Physicians Endorse Light RailA group of medical doctors in Hamilton has signed a letter calling on Hamilton City Council to continue to support the city's LRT plan. by RTH StaffPublished October 25, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (1 comment)

Councillor Brenda Johnson Wrong to Break LRT Support PromiseCouncil already has two financial sources that it could tap to help improve local transit, and I look forward to Councillor Johnson championing these among her colleagues. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished October 19, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (9 comments)

Councillor Brenda Johnson's LRT Opposition is AbsurdIs the former environmental project manager seriously prepared to reject a billion-dollar investment in electric rapid transit because the City and Province are on schedule with their negotiations? by Ryan McGrealPublished October 19, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (7 comments)

How Best to Seize the Light Rail OpportunityHamilton has the unique opportunity of implementing a fully-funded LRT before the city is mired in gridlock – an opportunity many cities could only dream of. by Chris HigginsPublished October 13, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (5 comments)

Hamilton Cannot Afford to Delay Light Rail ImplementationWe need economic relief, economic development, and jobs now. Not in a year's time, not in three years' time, not in five years' time, and certainly not when the city finds itself able to begin self-funding the rapid transit network, which is likely to be by Craig BurleyPublished October 13, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (0 comments)

The Cost of LRT UncertaintyBy prolonging the uncertainty over its outcome, the LRT opponents are playing political games with millions of dollars in foregone tax revenue. They are costing the residents of Hamilton access to new businesses, jobs and investments. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished October 12, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (15 comments)

Chad Collins vs. Chad CollinsThe Ward 5 Councillor said he was "not going to try to kill" LRT, and then decided to try to kill LRT. by Ryan McGrealPublished October 04, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (0 comments)

Murray: Two-Thirds Majority Council Vote Needed to Kill LRTThe City Manager has reconfirmed that Council would need to approve a reconsideration motion with a two-thirds majority to cancel the Hamilton LRT project. by Ryan McGrealPublished October 01, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (9 comments)

Print-Your-Own LRT Support Posters Now AvailableWe are very pleased to announce a series of posters for you to post in the windows of your home and business to show your support for LRT. by RTH StaffPublished September 28, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

LRT Opposition and Fear of ChangeHow far are LRT opponents willing to go to turn their predictions of doom into self-fulfilling prophesies? by Michael NabertPublished September 28, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (29 comments)

Hamilton is Not 'Nowhere'I can't think of a better illustration of the pessimism and civic self-loathing that drives the most ardent LRT opponents than this empty, cynical figure of speech. by Ryan McGrealPublished September 26, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (6 comments)

Mountain Councillors Hijack LRT Information MeetingSkelly and Whitehead are politicizing a formal communications process, obstructing a Council-approved project and undermining public confidence in city staff. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished September 22, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (16 comments)

Update on Hamilton LRT Plan From McMaster UniversityMcMaster University is fully on-board with the Hamilton Light Rail Transit plan, understands its benefits and is enthusiastic about the proposal to locate the maintenance facility near Frid Street. by RTH StaffPublished September 16, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (0 comments)

Why Are LRT Opponents So Down on Hamilton?Cynicism entails a reluctance to believe that things can change for the better. This is particularly true for LRT opponents who are stuck in a mindset that the city is a hopeless basket case. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished September 16, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (29 comments)

Yes, Brampton is Still a Cautionary TaleThe city that turned down Provincial LRT funding has delayed any possible rapid transit by several years - and still has no guarantee of funding. by Ryan McGrealPublished August 24, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (16 comments)

Two-Way Main Street Necessary for Downtown VibrancyEven if it's not necessary to mitigate traffic congestion, converting Main Street to two-way will provide other tangible benefits that will increase the overall success of the LRT investment. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished August 24, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (10 comments)

The Little Engine that MustIt is precisely the transformative potential of LRT to change how this city grows and develops over the next 50 years that has the staunchest guardians of the status quo running scared. by Ryan McGrealPublished August 15, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (9 comments)

Whitehead Rejects LRT Traffic Modelling ReportFar from his claim of trying to ensure that LRT is successful, the West Mountain councillor actually seems to be trying to ensure that it fails. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished August 04, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Time to go All-In on LRTLRT will undoubtedly deliver a wealth of benefits to Hamilton, but if we take a lukewarm approach to implementing it, the outcomes of this billion-dollar investment will be less than ideal. by Matt PinderPublished July 21, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (12 comments)

Light Rail Transit Station Needed at Gage ParkThe distance between Scott Park and Ottawa LRT station is 1.5 kilometres, one of the largest gaps between stations on the proposed route. by Mark RejhonPublished July 04, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (9 comments)

Light Rail Transit Support Letters from Area MP, MPPsLetters from seven Hamilton-area MPs and MPPs from two different political parties call on Council to re-affirm its support for the LRT project currently underway. by RTH StaffPublished June 21, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Whitehead's Latest Anti-LRT Ploy Another Pointless DistractionSeven years and scores of Council votes later, Councillor Whitehead has suddenly decided he is not convinced by staff arguments in favour of the King Street alignment. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished June 20, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

Three Questions for LRT OpponentsIt's embarrassing that it seems the only way my city is going to see transit improve is when the province comes along offering to foot 100 percent of the bill, a sweetheart deal other cities envy. by Michael NabertPublished June 20, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (73 comments)

Support. Groups. Too.Another 67 businesses and organizations have formally stated their support for Hamilton's LRT plan. by Graham CrawfordPublished June 17, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (27 comments)

St. Jean Realty Letter Supporting Light Rail TransitLetter states that LRT will help attract new residents and investors, curb sprawl, improve transportation choice and develop the city's diverse economy. by RTH StaffPublished June 16, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (13 comments)

Letter: Past Mayors, Regional Chairs Support Light RailAn open letter signed by seven former Hamilton Mayors and Wentworth Regional Chairs calls on Council to continue supporting Hamilton's LRT plan. by RTH StaffPublished June 14, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (69 comments)

Support. Groups.A large and broad coalition of business, community, environmental and social organizations support Hamilton's LRT plan. by Graham CrawfordPublished June 09, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (80 comments)

Clarifying what 'LRT or Nothing' MeansNo city gets to make up a transit plan on the back of a napkin and expect a funding commitment - especially not a city with a capricious track record. by Ryan McGrealPublished June 09, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Home Builders Letter Supporting Light Rail TransitHHHBA letter calls uncertainty over LRT plan "shocking" and calls on Council to "have the vision to see the benefits" and support the plan unanimously. by RTH StaffPublished June 08, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (12 comments)

The Real LRT Choice: Leadership or Anti-LeadershipThe real issue hiding behind the noise machine is a strategic mission for changing how people will be able to live, work and travel and invest in Hamilton over the next 50 years, vs. remaining with the status quo. by Ryan McGrealPublished June 03, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (44 comments)

Architects Letter Endorsing Light Rail TransitThe Hamilton-Burlington Society of Architects has written a letter explaining why the organization supports the city's LRT plan - and reminding Council why they have supported it as well. by RTH StaffPublished May 30, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (18 comments)

Premier: 'I Honestly Thought That the Conversation Was Done'A flustered Premier Kathleen Wynne was "surprised" to learn that suddenly Hamilton City Council is not sure whether it wants the LRT funding it spent the past eight years requesting. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 26, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (58 comments)

Answers to All Your Light Rail Transit QuestionsGrand list of responses to every serious question that has been put forward about Hamilton's light rail transit plan. by RTH StaffPublished May 20, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (39 comments)

Remembering WHY Hamilton and the Province Chose Light Rail TransitWithout LRT, we are stuck with a stock of infrastructure we can't afford, a band of under-performing urban properties, and a cost/revenue model that puts us $200 million further into deficit each year. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 19, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (18 comments)

New Hamilton Light Rail Engagement CampaignNow, more than ever, citizens need to demonstrate the vision, courage and leadership to look past the politicking, hand-wringing and fear-mongering and see this once-in-a-generation opportunity for what it is. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 16, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (62 comments)

Revised Merulla LRT MotionWard 4 Councillor Sam Merulla has revised the text of his LRT motion, which he will present to Council on Wednesday, May 11. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 05, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (6 comments)

LRT Design Goes Public TodayToday, the City will publish an information report detailing the alignment and design of the Hamilton light rail transit lines. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 27, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (62 comments)

Loomis, Whitehead Clash Over Complete Streets PolicyThe Chamber of Commerce President and west mountain Councillor exchanged strong words over motions that undermine the goal of a more balanced transportation system. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 30, 2016 in Special Report: Light Rail (44 comments)

A Moratorium on Progress that Undermines LRT PlanningIt is our fear that the motion before Council would tie the hands of city staff and the LRT Project Team by preventing them from designing into the project the very best practices that are essential to the success of LRT. by Keanin LoomisPublished December 09, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (15 comments)

Brampton's LRT Loss Could Expand Hamilton LRTBrampton City Council just voted to reject LRT capital funding. Hamilton could use that money to expand its LRT system instead. by Mark RejhonPublished October 28, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (69 comments)

Integrate Transit and Housing Policy to Support EquityRather than looking at transit, housing, health and economic development as separate issues, we must continue to integrate these discussions to develop creative, local solutions that meet the needs of current and future residents along the LRT corridor an by Greg TedescoPublished June 05, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (1 comment)

Reflections on the LRT Announcement and Next StepsLRT is a game-changer for Hamilton - as long as we truly seize the opportunity and muster the political courage to make the policy changes that will ensure success. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 29, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (70 comments)

Hamilton is Finally Ready to Embrace the FutureQuite simply, you get the city you plan for. Hamilton is about to join the ranks of those cities who are open to everyone, not just short-cutting car drivers. by Jason LeachPublished May 27, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (28 comments)

Hamilton Gets YES for an AnswerPremier announces up to $1 billion to build a light rail line in Hamilton and $150 million for a GO train extension to Centennial Parkway in Stoney Creek by Nicholas KevlahanPublished May 26, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (15 comments)

Anti-LRT Letters Demonstrate Need for Public EngagementWith the imminent announcement of LRT funding, the first order of business for the City is to elevate the level of a public debate mired in fear and misinformation. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 25, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (14 comments)

Rapid Transit 2.0: Toward a Successful Plan for HamiltonWe need to harness and re-invigorate the rapid transit planning process and send a strong message to the province that we get it, we want to stop sprawling and start intensifying in a serious way, we're all in on your vision for the region and are willing by Chris HigginsPublished April 29, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (51 comments)

One More Appeal for LRT in HamiltonOur only hope for LRT at this point is to convince the Province to save Hamilton from its own short-sightedness. by RTH StaffPublished March 11, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (29 comments)

Councillors Approve $300M Change to Provincial Transit RequestThis new plan accomplishes two politically palatable goals simultaneously: it lets the City off the hook to invest local money in local transit, and it lets the Province off the hook to invest Provincial money in rapid transit. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 09, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (49 comments)

Tell Council to Regain Control of the LRT FileThis plan will completely reverse almost eight years and $10 million of rapid transit planning, without Council being clear what is being proposed and what the stakes are. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished March 06, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (14 comments)

Ken Seiling Explains Why Waterloo Region Chose LRTWhat Waterloo did is both a blueprint for Hamilton and a painful reminder of what we were doing until we suddenly, unaccountably stopped. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 05, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (8 comments)

Urgent: Transit Plan is LRT KillerStaff and Council need to hear loud and clear that they can't decide Hamilton's future behind closed doors. by RTH StaffPublished March 05, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (22 comments)

HSR Ten Year Strategy Very Different from What Council RequestedCouncil needs to push back on this plan and start asking some hard questions about how the city's transit strategy has drifted so far from what staff were directed to produce. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 04, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (29 comments)

Don't Let Rapid Transit Be Decided Behind Closed DoorsCouncil has an opportunity to demonstrate that Hamiltonians can count on its leadership to ensure that we do not slam the door on the transformative investment we need. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 03, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (21 comments)

City Still Treating Transportation and Land Use as Separate IssuesComprehensive zoning reform to implement transit-oriented development it is the single largest issue still to be overcome if transit ridership is to improve in this city over the long term. by Chris HigginsPublished March 03, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (9 comments)

Ten Year Transit Strategy: LRT Delayed is LRT DeniedRemind Council that the only way to transform Hamilton's transit profile is to invest in rapid transit, but the Ten Year Transit Strategy effectively pushes even the beginning of rapid transit construction out beyond the ten-year horizon. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 03, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (31 comments)

What Does Hamilton Know that Waterloo Region Does Not?The Province offers to pay the capital cost for a transportation investment that will concentrate new development within the already built-up area and increase the city's property tax revenue per unit of area. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 10, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (60 comments)

Hamilton Deserves a Straight Answer from Province on LRTThe Liberals have been bobbing and weaving around the LRT issue ever since former Premier Dalton McGuinty first backpedaled from his government's funding commitment. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 06, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (13 comments)

Mayor, Premier Out of Sync on Rapid Transit Funding CommitmentI really want to believe the Province is acting in good faith on the LRT file. However, if they are just being prudent there seem to be less confusing ways to go about it. by Ryan McGrealPublished January 27, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (28 comments)

Light Rail and Citywide Transit Improvement Support Each OtherWe can - and should - be ramping up the discussion about LRT while also pursuing the city-wide transit improvements that staff already identified and Council approved (in principle) when it approved the Rapid Ready plan. by Ryan McGrealPublished January 05, 2015 in Special Report: Light Rail (94 comments)

Lack of Vision Cripples Hamilton's Transit SystemWith vision and leadership, our current council could be building legacies worthy of naming rights instead of focusing on potholes. by Sean BurakPublished December 19, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (49 comments)

A Newcomer's View of the Hamilton LRT DebateIt is to be hoped that a decision on Hamilton's LRT line will be made based on all of the facts, rather than emotion, half-truths, misunderstanding, and political expediency. by John ThompsonPublished December 16, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (41 comments)

Light Rail Transit InfographicTo be a truly great city, we need a 21st century transportation network that drives our economy and promotes prosperity for every person who calls Hamilton home. by Graeme DouglasPublished October 22, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (33 comments)

We Need to Reclaim Status As Innovators, Community BuildersWe've forgotten our true identity, which was to be always on the cusp of growth and technology. We have a chance to reclaim that if we can just get rid of the knee-jerk reaction to progress and evolution/innovation. by Lee Edward McIlmoylePublished October 20, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (13 comments)

Roundup of Pro-LRT Spectator Op-EdsIt's nice to see some coherent, evidence-based contributions to this crucial debate in the city's daily newspaper. by Ryan McGrealPublished October 16, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (9 comments)

Anti-LRT Oped Based Entirely on a False Premise - UpdatedThe author's whole argument is that Hamiltonians will see their taxes go up to fund LRT under the Metrolinx Investment Strategy - but that strategy was rejected from the approved 2014 Ontario budget. by Ryan McGrealPublished October 01, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (32 comments)

Architects Endorse Light Rail in Letter to Transport MinisterThe Hamilton/Burlington Society of Architects just sent a letter to Transport Minister Steven Del Duca calling on the Province to keep its funding commitment for LRT in Hamilton. by RTH StaffPublished September 26, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (68 comments)

No One Said LRT is a Magic BulletLRT must be contained in a comprehensive strategy that includes land use planning, two-way conversions and street calming - all objectives we have been advocating for years. by Ryan McGrealPublished September 22, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (46 comments)

Some Context on the 'LRT is No Magic Bullet' ArticleWe need to first decide what our needs are, our future goals for the city, and the lengths we will go to capitalize on the particular tool we have chosen. by Chris HigginsPublished September 22, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (19 comments)

Debating LRT on CHCH-TV's Square OffNicholas Kevlahan and John Best debated the pros and cons of light rail transit on Tuesday. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished September 11, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (16 comments)

No LRT Funding Announcement After Meeting With Minister Del DucaThe Transport Minister acknowledged that Council has submitted a comprehensive LRT plan but would not provide an answer on whether full capital funding for rapid transit will apply to the city's plan. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 25, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (20 comments)

Don't Let the City's Future be Decided Behind Closed DoorsThe worst thing that could happen as a result of today's meeting between Mayor Bratina and the Transport Minister is that the Province ends up making the City an offer it can't accept. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 25, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (4 comments)

More Head-Scratching LRT Responses From Mayor BratinaThrough his consistent pattern of misinformation, the mayor has utterly squandered any moral authority to speak on Hamilton's behalf with respect to LRT. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 24, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (8 comments)

Mayor Replying to Letters of Support for LRTWe cannot afford to let Bratina continue to hijack the agenda for transformative change in Hamilton. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 23, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (42 comments)

Show Your Support for LRTThe City's LRT plan is ready for provincial funding. Tell the Province to keep its promise to fund LRT. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 21, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (80 comments)

LRT Meeting with Transport Minister Must be Open and PublicIt is totally inappropriate for Mayor Bratina to hold a secret meeting with Minister Del Duca on a Provincial commitment to LRT, especially after Bratina's own history of misrepresenting Council's LRT position. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 16, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (14 comments)

Comparing LRT and BRT For the B-LineIf we are going to invest in rapid transit, we should aim to maximize the potential for net benefits. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 09, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (61 comments)

Induced Demand, Transit Investment and CongestionImproved transit doesn't necessarily permanently eliminate congestion on the roads, but it does enable a greater number of people to move around more efficiently at a given level of congestion. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished June 19, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (48 comments)

Next Steps for LRT in Hamilton, Part 2: Council Needs to Stay the CourseIf ever there was a time for our Councillors to remember the evidence presented before them, trust their own legacy of support, uphold the courage of their convictions and reiterate their commitment to LRT, that time is now. by Ryan McGrealPublished June 18, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (45 comments)

Ontario Liberals Still Trying to Wiggle Out of LRT CommitmentContrary to Premier Wynne's claim, Queen's Park has heard repeatedly and consistently from Hamilton that we support B-Line LRT with the promised full capital funding. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished June 10, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (59 comments)

Still Time for Leadership on LRTLRT could be a reality for Hamilton if our leaders have the understanding, vision and political courage to champion it, stick-handle it through opposition, and forcefully negotiate a good funding arrangement. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 02, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Visionary Leadership Usually Looks Like 'Going Rogue'Thank goodness for those few politicians who are willing to step outside the status quo and take calculated risks to achieve transformative change. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 25, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (30 comments)

Yet Another Anti-LRT Argument Based on NonsenseWithout strong local leadership on LRT, a steady stream of nonsense is slowly but steadily displacing the sound, evidence-based reasons why we cannot afford not to invest in LRT. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 15, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (32 comments)

LRT in a Tailspin After a Hopeful StartLack of interest from City Hall, short-sighted provincial politicking conspire to sideline Hamilton's LRT plan. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished March 18, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (50 comments)

Ontario NDP Waging War on Public InvestmentRather than supporting The Big Move in the service of something we might call the public interest, Andrea Horwath's NDP has re-politicized the issue and, quite possibly, doomed it in the process. by Simon KissPublished March 13, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Bratina Concern-Trolling the LRT DebateIf Mayor Bratina really supports LRT, he has had over three years to develop a properly thought-out alternative to the B-line and try to convince his colleagues that some other better option is possible. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished March 06, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (10 comments)

Mayor's Latest LRT Comments are More of the Same NonsenseBratina's latest dispatch is just another in a long succession of childish "gotcha"-style games calculated to sow confusion and doubt about Hamilton's LRT planning process. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 05, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (51 comments)

Light Rail Transit, Leadership and DemocracyOur Mayor and Council should make the case, forcefully and convincingly, for what they have been officially supporting for almost six years: a B-line LRT with full funding of direct costs from the Province. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished March 03, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (4 comments)

Light Rail Generates Highest Return on Investment: Transport MinisterSpeaking at a luncheon at Sarcoa Restaurant organized by the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, Murray presented an evidence-based case for investment in great civic infrastructure, explaining that beautiful, well-made infrastructure in the right locations del by Ryan McGrealPublished March 03, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (37 comments)

McHattie to Premier: Hamilton Ready for LRT FundingCouncillor Brian McHattie reiterates Council's position on the east-west B-Line LRT and reminds the Province of its commitment to provide full capital funding. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 27, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (38 comments)

Ontario Liberals Clarify Position on LRT FundingMinisters Ted McMeekin and Glen Murray confirm that the op-ed by Liberal candidates Javid Mirza and Ivan Luksic do not reflect Party policy on LRT funding. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 26, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (32 comments)

Is the Fix in for Hamilton's LRT Plan?It is starting to look like the Ontario Liberals want to back out of their promise to build LRT lines in Hamilton. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished February 24, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (52 comments)

If We Reject LRT, We Will Still PayGiven that we will have to pay our share of the whatever revenue tools the Province imposes either way, it only makes sense that we demand the best value for that money. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished February 19, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (30 comments)

The Case for Light Rail Transit in HamiltonWhy on earth would we turn our backs on such an exciting, timely and well-supported opportunity to transform this city for the better, for decades to come? by RTH StaffPublished February 10, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (12 comments)

Why Doesn't Premier Wynne Know Hamilton Wants LRT?If we fail to articulate our commitment to LRT today, Hamilton could easily end up left out of the next wave of Metrolinx projects, even as we help pay for LRT in other parts of the GTA. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished February 07, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (43 comments)

Bratina Still Repeating False Information About LRTTransit ridership on the east-west route of the LRT line is already high enough to justify the line and will only grow when the LRT line opens. by Ryan McGrealPublished January 08, 2014 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Bratina Takes Yet Another Potshot at City's LRT PlanThe Mayor never misses an opportunity to undermine and discredit the City's official light rail transit plan, which Council approved unanimously and the Province has promised to fund. by Ryan McGrealPublished October 24, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (59 comments)

Congestion $1.5-5 Billion Higher Than Estimated: StudyAccording to a new C.D. Howe study, the government's GTHA congestion cost estimate does not include the opportunity cost of missed chances to match skills with jobs, share knowledge and conduct mutually beneficial exchanges. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 12, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (14 comments)

Hamilton Cannot Afford Not to Invest in LRTIf we want to make the best policy decisions for Hamilton, we need to choose actual research over hand-wavy unsupported claims, and we need to stop manufacturing false alternatives. by Ryan McGrealPublished June 27, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (50 comments)

Metrolinx Unveils Investment StrategyThe plan finalizes a list of revenue tools to raise approximately $35 billion to pay for a series of planned regional transit investments, including an east-west Light Rail Transit (LRT) line in Hamilton. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 27, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (88 comments)

Mississauga Mayor Decries Hamilton's Inclusion in The Big MoveMcCallion's frustration is understandable, given Hamilton's lack of commitment to the Regional Transportation Plan. Competition and contempt are not how Metrolinx started out. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 24, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (16 comments)

We Need to Remember the Case for LRTThe basic question currently kicking around - Is LRT worth it? - has been answered conclusively but we are not hearing these arguments from our leaders or the staff who report to them. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 21, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (23 comments)

No One at City Hall is Responding to LRT CriticismNo one from the City is out there talking to the media to respond to questions that were already raised and answered years ago in the various studies and at the Public Information Centres. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished May 07, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (31 comments)

Letter: Once Again, Council Must Affirm Its Support for LRTAfter Mayor Bratina's comments, Council needs to make it perfectly clear to the Province, Metrolinx and the people of Hamilton that Council's unanimous approval of the Rapid Ready report confirms Council's support for LRT. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 21, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Bratina Refuses to Understand Council Support for LRTMayor Bratina still refuses to accept that his job is to support Council's decision to aggressively pursue a B-line LRT from Eastgate to McMaster - a decision for which he also voted! - and not to keep finding reasons to argue against it. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished April 21, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (15 comments)

It May Be Time For Another CensureOnce again, the mayor is refusing to follow Council's unanimous direction and bringing embarrassment to the city through his antics. Maybe it's time for Council to set the record straight with another censure. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 19, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (44 comments)

Mayor Manufactures More LRT ControversyMayor Bratina claims Hamilton has to choose between LRT and all-day GO service extended to Stoney Creek. The Premier says they're "not competing projects". We've heard this story before. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 17, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (41 comments)

Bratina Interviews Metrolinx CEOHamilton Mayor Bob Bratina interviews Metrolinx President and CEO Bruce McCuaig about the Metrolinx Investment Strategy and how it will impact Hamilton. by Ryan McGrealPublished April 01, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (10 comments)

Buffalo LRT Enables Urban ReinvestmentThe next few years may just vindicate those elements of the Buffalo LRT that were on the money after all, while drawing sharper attention to the corresponding policy decisions LRT needs to be successful. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 25, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (13 comments)

More Mixed Messaging on LRT FundingThis week, we heard contradictory messages from Provincial officials on whether Hamilton will have to contribute some capital funding toward the B-Line LRT. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 06, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (20 comments)

Mayor Says He Will Champion LRT NowMayor Bob Bratina has just stated that he will now champion LRT with full capital funding in his dealings with the Province. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 28, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (35 comments)

Billions at Stake in LRT ProjectWhy isn't Council up in arms over the flouting of their decisions and directions to staff on their support for light rail transit with full provincial funding? by Nicholas KevlahanPublished February 18, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (44 comments)

Big Move Consultation Continues LRT Holding PatternLRT is the preferred option, but no one will commit to it until a new funding model is decided on by the provincial government. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished February 13, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Alarming Notice for Metrolinx Big Move MeetingHas Metrolinx simply published a sloppy and confusing notice about tonight's meeting, or has the plan for LRT in Hamilton changed without anyone being told? by Nicholas KevlahanPublished February 12, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (13 comments)

Council Fails to Realize Hamilton's Needs and PotentialAs a group, City Council has demonstrated too much passivity, a serious disconnect from the potential of this city, and a lack of long-term vision. by Eric GillisPublished February 12, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (8 comments)

Mississauga Leads on LRT While Hamilton DithersDoes Mayor Bratina really believe that languid take-it-or-leave-it passivity is a winning political strategy? by Nicholas KevlahanPublished January 31, 2013 in Special Report: Light Rail (55 comments)

No New Information in Metrolinx AnnouncementOur political leaders need to champion the cause of a fair deal for Hamilton, take the long view on Hamilton's return on investment and shepherd this project to a successful completion. by Ryan McGrealPublished November 30, 2012 in Special Report: Light Rail (5 comments)

Hamilton Deserves Same LRT Deal as TorontoToronto is demanding - and receiving - full funding from Metrolinx for its three new LRT lines. Why is Hamilton content with a much less generous deal that Council won't accept? by Nicholas KevlahanPublished September 24, 2012 in Special Report: Light Rail (43 comments)

Province Needs to Honour Commitments to Transit InvestmentThe Ontario Government cannot afford not to invest in coordinated higher-order transit if we want the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area to have a bright future. by Ryan McGrealPublished August 29, 2012 in Special Report: Light Rail (61 comments)

Time to Fight for Fair LRT DealMayor Bratina and Council need to have a "focused discussion" on why Metrolinx and the Province seem ready to offer Hamilton a much worse LRT funding deal than they gave to Toronto. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished August 28, 2012 in Special Report: Light Rail (26 comments)

No Straight Answers on Hamilton LRT Funding CommitmentNeither Metrolinx nor the Province seems willing to provide any straight answers on how much municipalities are being asked to contribute to rapid transit projects in the GTHA. by Ryan McGrealPublished August 27, 2012 in Special Report: Light Rail (12 comments)

LRT Funding Forecast Still HazyWith so little still known about the funding details of Hamilton's LRT project, the danger is that any Council discussion at this point would be driven by confusion and fear of the unknown. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished August 24, 2012 in Special Report: Light Rail (34 comments)

Update on B-Line LRT PlanningRapid Transit staff on track to complete their 2012 work plan on the B-Line LRT. Once the work is finished, Metrolinx will make a funding decision. by Ryan McGrealPublished May 10, 2012 in Special Report: Light Rail (39 comments)

Three Ways LRT Can Help Low-Income HouseholdsWith a little planning, LRT will improve our city's finances, reduce personal transportation expenditures, improve public health, and create a more livable city for the vast majority of citizens. by Craig HermansonPublished October 14, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (19 comments)

City Council to Vote on LRT Report ThursdayThis report recommends continuing scheduled LRT design work, with no final decision to move forward forthcoming until senior levels of government commit to a funding formula for capital costs. by Joey ColemanPublished October 11, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (41 comments)

Building Support for Long-Term Regional Transit FundingDemonstrating the benefits of real transit connectivity across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area will make it easier for the Province to sell the public on a long-term funding arrangement. by Daniel RodriguesPublished October 11, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (11 comments)

Council, Province Must Work Together to Break LRT Funding StandoffThe only way to break the political deadlock is to keep up the public pressure, at both the provincial and city level, to show the politicians that this initiative has a lot of vocal support. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished September 30, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (20 comments)

Council Calls on Province to Confirm LRT CommitmentCouncil voted last night to ask the Province to confirm whether it will honour its 2007 promise to fully fund LRT in Hamilton. But what happens if the Province says no? by Ryan McGrealPublished September 29, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (7 comments)

Leadership and Bold Vision on LRTWe don't need more study. We don't need to 'step back and respect the process'. And we certainly don't need to be 'protected'. What we need is leadership and bold vision. by Jason AllenPublished September 27, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (22 comments)

Clark to Present LRT Motion to CouncilCouncillor Clark will bring forward a motion at the October 28 Council meeting to call on the Province to commit to funding LRT in Hamilton. by Ryan McGrealPublished September 27, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (10 comments)

A Crucial Turning Point for HamiltonHamilton's future can become the envy of cities across Canada and even the world. Will we take a bold step forward at this crucial moment in our history? by Jason LeachPublished September 23, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (33 comments)

Introducing the Hamilton Light Rail InitiativeA new citizens' campaign asks Council and the Province to commit to finishing the job of building Light Rail Transit in Hamilton. by RTH StaffPublished September 23, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (9 comments)

City Wants Your Comments on B-Line Design CharrettesThe City's Nodes and Corridors planning team have published the results of this summer's design charrettes along the B-Line LRT corridor and want your feedback. by Ryan McGrealPublished September 21, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (24 comments)

A Short History of LRT Planning in HamiltonWe can't properly evaluate the state of LRT planning in Hamilton today without the context of the four-year history that brought us here. by Ryan McGrealPublished September 14, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (40 comments)

Clark: Hamilton is Being Played on LRTIn a candid interview, Councillor Brad Clark argues that Hamilton is running out of time to get a decisive commitment from the Province to keep their promise to build two light rail lines in Hamilton. by Ryan McGrealPublished September 12, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (52 comments)

Jill Stephen Leaving City of HamiltonThe manager in charge of the rapid transit office has resigned from the City of Hamilton after a summer of politicking against LRT by Mayor Bratina and senior management. by Ryan McGrealPublished September 08, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (81 comments)

Myths and Facts about Light Rail TransitA number of common myths about LRT and Hamilton continue to surface in the public debate over the City's proposed east-west LRT line. by Ryan McGrealPublished August 04, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (117 comments)

The Mystery of the Missing MinuteA CHML podcast of Mayor Bratina on the Bill Kelly Show had one minute removed before it was posted. Why? by Graham CrawfordPublished August 01, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (43 comments)

What Does Hamilton Want to Be When it Grows Up?Light Rail Transit would surely fuel the fires of rapid change in this city, but it would be a welcome change. by Larry PattisonPublished July 22, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (106 comments)

McMeekin: City Must Set Rapid Transit PrioritiesLiberal MPP Ted McMeekin has said that Hamilton must set its rapid transit priorities and make a good business case for LRT along the B-Line, while Metrolinx reconfirms that Hamilton needs to get its LRT plan ready before any funding decisions are made. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 21, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (18 comments)

LRT and Hamilton's Industrial FutureIn the LRT debate, not only the appeal of various technical solutions are at issue but it is also a visioning exercise that involves the psyche of the whole city. What does Hamilton want to become? by Michael CummingPublished July 20, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (19 comments)

Is Council Going to Stand For This?Will senior management be allowed to unilaterally shift the city's transportation priorities, or will Council step up and assert its leadership over the city's goals? by Ryan McGrealPublished July 18, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (59 comments)

Murray to Council: Suspend Work on LRT, Focus on All-Day GOThe City's Senior Management Team has suspended all work on LRT that is not required to meet provincial funding requirements and appointed a manager to "aggressively pursue" all-day GO service. by RTH StaffPublished July 18, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (89 comments)

Council Needs to Advance, Not Punt on LRTThe Provincial decision on which rapid transit projects will get funded is a political decision, and the level of support and enthusiasm - from Hamilton's citizens and politicians alike - will be a significant factor in what the Province decides. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 08, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (16 comments)

Tell Council You Support Light RailSend Council a message. Remind them why LRT is a good idea - why they unanimously supported it just three years ago. by RTH StaffPublished July 06, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (9 comments)

Rudderless Council Drifts Aimlessly on LRTAfter years of community organizing, extensive study and planning, unprecedented public engagement and a unanimous Council vote of support, Hamilton's LRT bid now seems to be crumbling due to a lack of leadership. by Ryan McGrealPublished July 05, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (35 comments)

Light Rail Needs Leadership From MayorIf our own Mayor still doesn't clearly support LRT, we are going to lose out to our neighbouring competitor cities, who are better able to enunciate their priorities clearly and forcefully. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished July 05, 2011 in Special Report: Light Rail (34 comments)

LRT Needs Two-Way Streets for SuccessPedestrian-friendly streets are a necessary part of transit-oriented development. If Hamilton does not successfully support transit-oriented development, our LRT project will fail. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished December 16, 2010 in Special Report: Light Rail (39 comments)

LRT Plan Needs Two-Way Main and Cannon StreetsLeaving Main and Cannon as one-way streets undermines LRT by resulting in lower levels of investment within the transit corridor, as well as lower rates of ridership growth. by Ryan McGrealPublished December 03, 2010 in Special Report: Light Rail (69 comments)

Rapid Transit Office Explains One-Way Vehicle Traffic in LRT PlanJillian Stephen, director of the City's Rapid Transit office, explains why the two-way conversion of King Street and Main Street through the downtown core were dropped from the City's LRT plans. by RTH StaffPublished December 03, 2010 in Special Report: Light Rail (14 comments)

City Abandons Two-Way Conversion in LRT PlanStaff need to muster up the vision and ambition to build LRT to its full potential, and not cripple it with compromises to entrenched (and empirically failed) ways of thinking about traffic and transformation. by Ryan McGrealPublished December 02, 2010 in Special Report: Light Rail (57 comments)

Could AEGD cost Hamilton LRT?Hamilton has a great case for light rail in population growth and economic development potential. In land use, though, the Aerotropolis decision is our latest embarrassment. by Meredith BroughtonPublished November 15, 2010 in Special Report: Light Rail (108 comments)

Ontario Budget and LRT: Are We Screwed?The Province has effectively abandoned its commitment to transfomative transit investment. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 26, 2010 in Special Report: Light Rail (58 comments)

Survivorship Bias and Business Opposition to LRT Current business owners don't understand LRT beyond its narrow role as transit. Worse, as survivors of the status quo they misrepresent the lost potential for transformation. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 17, 2010 in Special Report: Light Rail (40 comments)

Are We On a Slow Train to Nowhere?After years of futzing around on a matter that has already been studied to death, the Ontario Government may end up simply running down the clock on Hamilton's best chance at a decent transportation spine. by Ryan McGrealPublished February 01, 2010 in Special Report: Light Rail (41 comments)

On the Beams of Light RailMain Street was made for light rail transit. What other city can just slip in an LRT through the city from end to end along a straight, wide corridor already waiting? by Elizabeth ParkerPublished October 09, 2009 in Special Report: Light Rail (60 comments)

Ontario Government Proposes Changes to MetrolinxA bill just tabled by the Ontario Government will merge Metrolinx with GO Transit and replace the current Board of municipal politicians with appointed transportation planners. by Ryan McGrealPublished March 31, 2009 in Special Report: Light Rail (6 comments)

Moving Forward on Hamilton's LRT InitiativeThe City cannot reasonably expect the province to pay 100 percent of the capital costs for light rail. Why is LRT important, and yet not important enough to warrant any City contribution? by Nicholas KevlahanPublished November 04, 2008 in Special Report: Light Rail (16 comments)

The Time is Right Now for Light Rail in HamiltonThe only way to guarantee first-round funding is to send Metrolinx a clear message that the city's political leadership is united behind the light rail initiative. by Ryan McGrealPublished October 02, 2008 in Special Report: Light Rail (6 comments)

A Little Farther Down the Line After a busy summer, light rail is getting closer to reality for Hamilton. by Ryan McGrealPublished September 11, 2008 in Special Report: Light Rail (31 comments)

Let's Do Transit RightLight rail is a way for Hamilton to turn a one-time $300 million gift into a long-term perpetual income instead of a long term property tax sinkhole. by Sean BurakPublished December 20, 2007 in Special Report: Light Rail (0 comments)

Overcoming Domesticated AmbitionThe Public Works Department claims to be undergoing a conceptual shift in what city building means, but it still has a way to go. by Ryan McGrealPublished November 27, 2007 in Special Report: Light Rail (4 comments)

Hamilton Light Rail Website LaunchA new organization is forming to promote modern light rail in Hamilton. by Ryan McGrealPublished November 08, 2007 in Special Report: Light Rail (8 comments)

Building Grassroots Support for Light RailIf Hamilton is going to get light rail, citizens need to take the lead in advocating for it. by Ryan McGrealPublished September 09, 2007 in Special Report: Light Rail (7 comments)

Wanted: Light Rail Champion for HamiltonThe Mayor really needs to get out in front of this issue and demonstrate some robust leadership. by Ryan McGrealPublished June 27, 2007 in Special Report: Light Rail (7 comments)

Rebalancing Our Transportation Network: A Case StudyHamiltonians often talk about how much they enjoy spending time in Europe, but we could have a European quality of urban life here as well. by Nicholas KevlahanPublished January 10, 2007 in Special Report: Light Rail (2 comments)

Ottawa Transit Derailed: An Interview with Clive DoucetClive Doucet, an Ottawa City Councillor who strongly supported Ottawa's planned light rail system, explains why the plan was cancelled and what cities must do to create good sustainable transportation systems. by Ben BullPublished January 10, 2007 in Special Report: Light Rail (39 comments)